Download PDF Manual


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Fuses


UNDER-HOOD (SECONDARY)


UNDER-HOOD (SUB)


TAB


The secondary fuse box is on the passenger's side. To open it, push the tabs as shown.


TAB


Ifequipped The sub fuse box is on the passenger's side. To open it, push the tabs as shown.


Checking and Replacing Fuses If something electrical in your vehicle stops working, the first thing you should check for is a blown fuse. Determine from the chart on pages 569, 570, and 571, or the diagram on the fuse box lid, which fuse or fuses control that device. Check those fuses first, but check all the fuses before deciding that a blown fuse is the cause. Replace any blown fuses, and check if the device works. 1. Turn the ignition switch to the


LOCK (0) position. Make sure the headlights and all other accessories are off.


2. Remove the cover from the fuse


box.


566


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


FUSE


BLOWN


BLOWN


Fuses


3. Check each of the large fuses in


the under-hood fuse boxes by looking through the top at the wire inside. Removing these fuses requires a Phillips-head screwdriver.


FUSE PULLER 4. Check the smaller fuses in the under-hood fuse boxes and rear fuse box, and all the fuses in the interior and rear fuse boxes by pulling out each one with the fuse puller provided in the primary under-hood fuse box.


CONTINUED 567


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


If you cannot drive the vehicle without fixing the problem, and you do not have a spare fuse, take a fuse of the same rating or a lower rating from one of the other circuits. Make sure you can do without that circuit temporarily (such as the accessory power socket or radio). If you replace the blown fuse with a spare fuse that has a lower rating, it might blow out again. This does not indicate that anything is wrong. Replace the fuse with one of the correct rating as soon as you can.


Replacing a fuse with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chances of damaging the electrical system. If you do not have a replacement fuse with the proper rating for the circuit, install one with a lower rating.


6. If the replacement fuse of the same rating blows in a short time, there is probably a serious electrical problem with your vehicle. Leave the blown fuse in that circuit, and have your vehicle checked by a qualified technician.


Fuses


BLOWN


5. Look for a burned wire inside the fuse. If it is burned out, replace it with one of the spare fuses of the same rating or lower.


568


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


PRIMARY UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX


No.


Amps. 120 A


- 30 A 30 A 30 A 40 A 40 A 40 A


2-1
2-2
2-3
2-4
2-5
2-6


2-7


40 A


2-8
3-1


- 60 A


3-2


40 A


3-3


60 A


50 A


3-4
ᤳ1: Canadian model ᤳ2: If equipped


Circuits Protected


Main fuse Not Used ADSᤳ2
SH-AWD Rear Blower Motor ABS VSA Trailer Main Power Seats, Driver's Position Memory System, Subwoofer, Telescopic Steering Wheel Front Heated Seat, TPMS, Moonroof, Driver's Lumbar Support - Fog Lights, Front Blower Motor, Interior Light Headlights, Daytime Running Lights Cooling Fan, Condenser Fan, MG Clutch, Headlight Washerᤳ1
Ignition Switch Main


Fuse Locations


No. 3-5
3-6


Amps. 50 A 60 A


3-7
3-8


10
11
12
13
14
15


30 A 30 A 40 A


30 A 30 A 30 A 30 A 7.5 A 15 A 15 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A


Circuits Protected


Power Window Power Tailgate Opener/Closer, Rear ACC Socket, Interior Light, Rear Defroster ECU (PCM) TECH Audio, Door Lock, Interior Lights, Front ACC Socket EPT-Lᤳ2
EPT-Rᤳ2
FI ECU Audio Amplifier Battery Sensor Hazard Horn, Stop ABS VSA Trailer (Brake) Rear Heated Seatᤳ2
A/C Inverter


CONTINUED 569


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Fuse Locations


SECONDARY UNDER-HOOD FUSE BOX


No.


Amps. 10 A 10 A


10
11
12


10 A 10 A 7.5 A 30 A 7.5 A 15 A 15 A 15 A 15 A 40 A


Circuits Protected


Left Daytime Running Light Right Daytime Running Light Left Headlight High Right Headlight High Small Lights (Exterior) Headlight Low Main Cooling Fan Timer IGP IG Coil DBW AFHT Front Blower Motor


570


REAR FUSE BOX


No. 13
14
15
16
17
18
19
22


Amps. 20 A 30 A 30 A 30 A 7.5 A 15 A 15 A 7.5 A


Circuits Protected


Fog Lights Headlight Washerᤳ Condenser Fan Cooling Fan A/C Clutch Left Headlight Low Right Headlight Low Small Lights (Interior)


ᤳ: Canadian model SUB FUSE BOX Ifequipped


No. 10
11


Amps.


Circuits Protected


- - - - 10 A 20 A - 7.5 A - 30 A 40 A


Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Rear ACC Socket Power Tailgate Not Used Interior Light Not Used Rear Defroster Power Tailgate


No.


Amps. 10 A


Circuits Protected


ACC/CMBS, BSI, ADS, EPT, AVS


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


No. 14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33


Amps. 20 A 20 A 20 A 20 A 10 A 20 A 10 A 7.5 A 10 A - 20 A 20 A 30 A 30 A 20 A 10 A 10 A 15 A 10 A -


Circuits Protected


Driver's Power Slide Telescopic Steering Wheel Driver's Power Recline Passenger's Power Slide Alternator Fuel Pump SH-AWD, ODS Gauges SRS Not Used Left Rear Power Window Right Rear Power Window Passenger's Power Window Driver's Power Window Tilt Steering Wheel ABS VSA A/C Washer ACC Not Used


INTERIOR FUSE BOX


Auxiliary (Holder1)


No.


Amps. 7.5 A 10 A


10
11
12
13


15 A 20 A 10 A 7.5 A 10 A 20 A 15 A 15 A 30 A 10 A 20 A


Auxiliary (Holder2)


Circuits Protected


TPMS Driver's Lumbar Support Motor Moonroof Front Heated Seats Audio Interior Light Back Up Door Lock ACC Socket IG Coil Windshield Wiper Subwoofer Passenger's Power Recline


Fuse Locations


Auxiliary (Holder1)


No.


Amps. 7.5 A 7.5 A


Circuits Protected


Starter DIAG SH-AWD


Auxiliary (Holder2)


No.


Amps. 7.5 A 7.5 A


STS ODS


Circuits Protected


571


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Opening the Fuel Fill Door Manually, Emergency Towing


Opening the Fuel Fill Door Manually


LID


RELEASE LEVER


To open the fuel fill door, pull the release lever rearward.


If the fuel fill door release button does not work, use the release lever inside the rear fuse box lid in the cargo area.


572


Emergency Towing If your vehicle needs to be towed, call a professional towing service or organization. Never tow your vehicle with just a rope or chain. It is very dangerous. The only way you can safely tow your vehicle is with flat-bed equipment. The operator will load your vehicle on the back of a truck. Any other method of towing will damage the drive system. When you contact the towing agency, inform them a flat-bed is required.


Towing with only two tires on the ground will damage parts of the all- wheel-drive system. Your vehicle should be transported on a flat-bed truck or trailer.


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck


Front


COVER


Rear


COVER


If your vehicle gets stuck in sand, mud, or snow, call a towing service to pull it out (see the previous page). For very short distances, such as freeing the vehicle, you can use the detachable towing hook that mounts on the anchors in the front and rear bumpers.


1. Remove the cover, put cloth on the


edge of the cover to prevent scratches and carefully pry with a small flat-tip screwdriver or a metal fingernail file.


The cover is attached to the bumper with a tether.


CONTINUED 573


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck


TOWING HOOK and WHEEL NUT WRENCH


WHEEL NUT WRENCH


To avoid damage to your vehicle, use the towing hook for straight, flat ground towing only. Do not tow at an angle. The tow hook should not be used to tow the vehicle onto a flat bed. Do not use it as a tie down.


Front


TOWING HOOK 3. Screw the towing hook into the


hole, and tighten it with the wheel nut wrench.


2. Remove the towing hook and


wheel nut wrench located behind the cargo area cover on the driver's side.


574


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Technical Information


The diagrams in this section give you the dimensions and capacities of your vehicle and the locations of the identification numbers. It also includes information you should know about your vehicle's tires and emissions control systems.


Identification Numbers ............... 576
Specifications .............................. 578
DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S.


Vehicles)................................. 581
Tire Labeling .............................. 583
Tire Pressure Monitoring System


(TPMS) - Required Federal


Explanation ......................... 585
Emissions Controls..................... 587
Three Way Catalytic


Converter................................ 589
Emissions Testing....................... 590


575


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Identification Numbers


Your vehicle has several identifying numbers located in various places. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the 17-digit number your dealer uses to register your vehicle for warranty purposes. It is also necessary for licensing and insuring your vehicle. The easiest place to find the VIN is on a plate fastened to the top of the dashboard. You can see it by looking through the windshield on the driver's side. It is also on the certification label attached to the driver's doorjamb, and is stamped on the engine compartment bulkhead. The VIN is also provided in bar code on the certification label.


576


VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER


CERTIFICATION LABEL


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


The engine number is stamped into the engine block. It is on the front. The transmission number is on a label on top of the transmission.


ENGINE NUMBER


Identification Numbers


AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NUMBER


577


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Specifications


Dimensions


Length Width Height Wheelbase Track


Weights


Front Rear


191.6 in (4,867 mm) 78.5 in (1,994 mm) 68.2 in (1,733 mm) 108.3 in (2,750 mm) 67.7 in (1,720 mm) 67.5 in (1,715 mm)


Gross vehicle weight rating


Gross combined weightᤳ1
rating (GCWR)


See the tire information label attached to the driver's doorjamb.


10,053 lbs (4,560 kg)


ᤳ1: The GCWR must be reduced 2 percent for every 1,000 feet (305


meters) of elevation.


Air Conditioning


Refrigerant type Charge quantity Lubricant type


Seating Capacities


Total Front Second Third


578


HFC-134a (R-134a)


21.2-22.9 oz (600-650 g)


ND-OIL 8


Capacities Fuel tank


Engine coolant Engine oil


Changeᤳ1
Total Changeᤳ2


Including filter Without filter


Total Change Total


Change Total


Change Total


U.S. vehicles Canadian vehicles


Automatic transmission fluid Rear differential fluid Transfer assembly fluid Windshield washer reservoir


Approx. 21.00 US gal (79.5 L) 1.93 US gal (7.3 L) 2.43 US gal (9.2 L)


4.5 US qt (4.3 L)


4.2 US qt (4.0 L)


5.3 US qt (5.0 L) 3.3 US qt (3.1 L) 8.5 US qt (8.0 L)


2.6 US qt (2.5 L) 3.0 US qt (2.8 L)


0.4 US qt (0.4 L) 0.4 US qt (0.4 L)


4.2 US qt (4.0 L) 6.1 US qt (5.8 L)


ᤳ1:


Including the coolant in the reserve tank and that remaining in the engine Reserve tank capacity: 0.18 US gal (0.7 L)


ᤳ2: Excluding the oil remaining in the engine


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Lights


Headlights


High Lowᤳ1


Daytime running lights Front side marker lights Front turn signal lights Parking lights Stop/Tail lights Side turn signal lights Fog lights Rear turn signal lights Rear side marker lights Backup lights High-mount brake light License plate lights Tailgate lights Vanity mirror lights Door lights Glove box light Foot light


60 W (HB3) 35 W (D2S) 60 W (HB3) 3 CP 21 W (Amber) 3 CP LEDᤳ2
LEDᤳ2
55 W (H11) 21 W 3 CP 18 W LEDᤳ2
3 CP 5 W 2 W 3.4 W 1.4 W 3.4 W


ᤳ1: The low beam headlights are high voltage discharged type.


Replacement of a low beam headlight bulb should be performed by your dealer.


ᤳ2: Replacement of a light bulb should be done by your dealer.


Battery


Capacity


Fuses


Interior


Rear


Under-hood


Engine Type


Bore x Stroke Displacement Compression ratio Spark plugs


Alignment


Toe-in


Camber


Caster


Front Rear Front Rear Front


Specifications


12 V - 65AH/5 HR


12 V - 76AH/20 HR


See page 571 or the fuse label attached to the inside of the fuse box lid. See page 570 or the fuse label attached to the inside of the fuse box lid. See page 569 and 570 or the fuse box cover.


Water-cooled, 4-stroke SOHC VTEC V6


gasoline engine


3.54 x 3.78 in (90.0 x 96.0 mm)


223.5 cu-in (3,664 cm3)


11.2 : 1


DENSO: NGK:


SXU22HCR11S ILZKR7B11S


0.00 in (0.0 mm) 0.08 in (2.0 mm)


- 0 ° 30 ’ - 0 ° 30 ’


4 ° 12 ’


579


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Specifications


Tires


Size


Pressure


Front/Rear


Spare Front/Rear Spare


255/55R18 105Hᤳ1
P255/50R19 103Hᤳ2
T165/80D17 104M


32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2) 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2)


ᤳ1: MDX, Technology Package, and U.S. Technology Package with


Entertainment models


ᤳ2: U.S. Advance Package, Advance Package with Entertainment, and


Canadian Elite Package models


580


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


The tires on your vehicle meet all U. S. Federal Safety Requirements. All tires are also graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature performance according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. The following explains these gradings. Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:


Treadwear 200
Traction AA Temperature A


All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades.


DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)


Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.


Traction The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.


CONTINUED 581


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


DOT Tire Quality Grading (U.S. Vehicles)


Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.


Temperature The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.


582


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


The tires that came on your vehicle have a number of markings. Those you should be aware of are described below.


TIRE LABELING EXAMPLE


(1)


TireSize Whenever tires are replaced, they should be replaced with tires of the same size. Following is an example of tire size with an explanation of what each component means.


P255/50R19 103H


P - Vehicle type (P indicates


passenger vehicle).


255 - Tire width in millimeters.


50 - Aspect ratio (the tire's


section height as a percentage of its width).


(4)


(3)


(2)


(1)


R - Tire construction code (R


indicates radial).


(1) Tire Size (2) Tire Identification Number (TIN) (3) Maximum Tire Pressure (4) Maximum Tire Load


19 - Rim diameter in inches.


Tire Labeling


103 - Load index (a numerical code


associated with the maximum load the tire can carry).


H - Speed symbol (an


alphabetical code indicating the maximum speed rating).


TireIdentificationNumber(TIN) The tire identification number (TIN) is a group of numbers and letters that look like the following example. TIN is located on the sidewall of the tire.


DOT B97R FW6X 2202


DOT - This indicates that the tire meets all requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.


B97R - Manufacturer's


identification mark.


CONTINUED 583


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Tire Labeling


FW6X - Tire type code.


2202 -


Date of manufacture. Year Week


584


Glossary of Tire Terminology Cold Tire Pressure - The tire air pressure when the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Load Rating - Means the maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure. Maximum Inflation Pressure - The maximum tire air pressure that the tire can hold. Maximum Load Rating - Means the load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire. Recommended Inflation Pressure - The cold tire inflation pressure recommended by the manufacturer. Treadwear Indicators (TWI) - Means the projections within the principal grooves designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread.


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) - Required Federal Explanation


Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)


As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale


when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure.


Driving on a significantly under- inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.


CONTINUED 585


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) - Required Federal Explanation


Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.


Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly.


586


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


The burning of gasoline in your vehicle's engine produces several byproducts. Some of these are carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and hydrocarbons (HC). Gasoline evaporating from the tank also produces hydrocarbons. Controlling the production of NOx, CO, and HC is important to the environment. Under certain conditions of sunlight and climate, NOx and HC react to form photochemical ‘‘smog.’’ Carbon monoxide does not contribute to smog creation, but it is a poisonous gas.


The Clean Air Act The United States Clean Air Actᤳ sets standards for automobile emissions. It also requires that automobile manufacturers explain to owners how their emissions controls work and what to do to maintain them. This section summarizes how the emissions controls work. Scheduled maintenance is on page 514. ᤳ In Canada, Acura vehicles comply with the Canadian emission requirements, as specified in an agreement with Environment Canada, at the time they are manufactured.


Emissions Controls


Crankcase Emissions Control System Your vehicle has a positive crankcase ventilation system. This keeps gasses that build up in the engine's crankcase from going into the atmosphere. The positive crankcase ventilation valve routes them from the crankcase back to the intake manifold. They are then drawn into the engine and burned. Evaporative Emissions Control System As gasoline evaporates in the fuel tank, an evaporative emissions control canister filled with charcoal adsorbs the vapor. It is stored in this canister while the engine is off. After the engine is started and warmed up, the vapor is drawn into the engine and burned during driving.


CONTINUED 587


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Emissions Controls


Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery The onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system captures the fuel vapors during refueling. The vapors are adsorbed in a canister filled with activated carbon. While driving, the fuel vapors are drawn into the engine and burned off. Exhaust Emissions Controls The exhaust emissions controls include four systems: PGM-FI, ignition timing control, exhaust gas recirculation, and three way catalytic converter. These four systems work together to control the engine's combustion and minimize the amount of HC, CO, and NOx that come out the tailpipe. The exhaust emissions control systems are separate from the crankcase and evaporative emissions control systems.


588


PGM-FISystem The PGM-FI system uses sequential multiport fuel injection. It has three subsystems: air intake, engine control, and fuel control. The powertrain control module (PCM) uses various sensors to determine how much air is going into the engine. It then controls how much fuel to inject under all operating conditions. IgnitionTimingControlSystem This system constantly adjusts the ignition timing, reducing the amount of HC, CO, and NOx produced. ExhaustGasRecirculation(EGR) System The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system takes some of the exhaust gas and routes it back into the intake manifold. Adding exhaust gas to the air/fuel mixture reduces the amount of NOx produced when the fuel is burned.


ThreeWayCatalyticConverter The three way catalytic converter is in the exhaust system. Through chemical reactions, it converts HC, CO, and NOx in the engine's exhaust to carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), and water vapor. Replacement Parts The emissions control systems are designed and certified to work together in reducing emissions to levels that comply with the Clean Air Act. To make sure the emissions remain low, you should use only new Acura replacement parts or their equivalent for repairs. Using lower quality parts may increase the emissions from your vehicle. The emissions control systems are covered by warranties separate from the rest of your vehicle. Read your warranty manual for more information.


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Three Way Catalytic Converter


The three way catalytic converter contains precious metals that serve as catalysts, promoting chemical reactions to convert the exhaust gasses without affecting the metals. The catalytic converter is referred to as a three-way catalyst, since it acts on HC, CO, and NOx. A replacement unit must be an original Acura part or its equivalent. The three way catalytic converter must operate at a high temperature for the chemical reactions to take place. It can set on fire any combustible materials that come near it. Park your vehicle away from high grass, dry leaves, or other flammables.


WARM UP THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS ● Keep the engine well maintained. ● Have your vehicle diagnosed and


repaired if it is misfiring, backfiring, stalling, or otherwise not running properly.


THREE WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER


A defective three way catalytic converter contributes to air pollution, and can impair your engine's performance. Follow these guidelines to protect your vehicle's three way catalytic converter. ● Always use unleaded gasoline. Even a small amount of leaded gasoline can contaminate the catalyst metals, making the three way catalytic converter ineffective.


589


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


4. Without touching the accelerator pedal, start the engine, and let it idle for 20 seconds.


5. Keep the vehicle in Park. Increase the engine speed to 2,000 rpm, and hold it there until the temperature gauge rises to at least 1/4 of the scale (about 3 minutes).


6. Without touching the accelerator


pedal, let the engine idle for 20
seconds.


If the testing facility determines that the readiness codes are not set, you will be requested to return at a later date to complete the test. If you must get the vehicle retested within the next two or three days, you can condition the vehicle for retesting by doing the following. 1. Make sure the gas tank is nearly,


but not completely, full (around 3/4).


2. Make sure the vehicle has been parked with the engine off for 6
hours or more.


3. Make sure the ambient


temperature is between 40° and 95°F (4° and 35°C).


Emissions Testing


Testing of Readiness Codes If you take your vehicle for an emissions test shortly after the battery has been disconnected or gone dead, it may not pass the test. This is because of certain ‘‘readiness codes’’ that must be set in the on- board diagnostics for the emissions systems. These codes are erased when the battery is disconnected, and set again only after several days of driving under a variety of conditions.


590


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Emissions Testing


8. Then drive in city/suburban traffic


for at least 10 minutes. When traffic conditions allow, let the vehicle coast for several seconds without using the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.


9. Make sure the vehicle has been parked with the engine off for 30
minutes.


If the testing facility determines the readiness codes are still not set, see your dealer.


7. Select a nearby lightly traveled major highway where you can maintain a speed of 50 to 60 mph (80 to 97 km/h) for at least 20
minutes. Drive on the highway in D. Do not use the cruise control. When traffic allows, drive for 90
seconds without moving the accelerator pedal. (Vehicle speed may vary slightly; this is okay.) If you cannot do this for a continuous 90 seconds because of traffic conditions, drive for at least 30
seconds, then repeat it two more times (for a total of 90 seconds).


591


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


592


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Warranty and Client Relations


Client Service Information........... 594
Warranty Coverages ................... 595
Reporting Safety Defects............. 596
Authorized Manuals.................... 597


593


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Canadian Owners: Honda Canada Inc. Acura Client Services 180 Honda Boulevard Markham, ON L6C 0H9


Tel: 1-888-9-ACURA-9
Fax: 1-877-939-0909
E-Mail: [email protected] In Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands: Vortex Motor Corp. Bella International P.O. Box 190816
San Juan, PR 00919-0816


Tel: (787) 620-7546


When you call or write, please give us this information: ● Vehicle Identification Number (see


page 576)


● Name and address of the dealer


who services your vehicle


● Date of purchase ● Odometer reading of your vehicle ● Your name, address, and


telephone number


● A detailed description of the


problem


● Name of the dealer who sold the


vehicle to you


Client Service Information


Acura dealership personnel are trained professionals. They should be able to answer all your questions. If you encounter a problem that your dealership does not solve to your satisfaction, please discuss it with the dealership's management. The service manager or general manager can help. Almost all problems are solved in this way. If you are dissatisfied with the decision made by the dealership's management, contact Acura Client Relations. U.S. Owners: American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Acura Client Relations Mail Stop 500-2N-7E 1919 Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90501-2746


Tel: (800) 382-2238


594


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


RustPerforationLimitedWarranty- all exterior body panels are covered for rust-through from the inside for the specified time period with no mileage limit. AccessoryLimitedWarranty- Acura accessories are covered under this warranty. Time and mileage limits depend on the type of accessory and other factors. Please read your warranty manual for details. ReplacementPartsLimitedWarranty - covers all Acura replacement parts against defects in materials and workmanship.


U.S. Owners Your new vehicle is covered by these warranties: NewVehicleLimitedWarranty- covers your new vehicle, except for the emissions control systems, and accessories, against defects in materials and workmanship. EmissionsControlSystemsDefects WarrantyandEmissions PerformanceWarranty- these two warranties cover your vehicle's emissions control systems. Time, mileage, and coverage are conditional. Please read your warranty booklet for exact information. SeatBeltLimitedWarranty- a seat belt that fails to function properly is covered by a limited warranty. Please read your warranty booklet for details.


Warranty Coverages


ReplacementBatteryLimited Warranty- provides prorated coverage for a replacement battery purchased from your dealer. ReplacementMufflerLifetime LimitedWarranty- provides coverage for as long as the purchaser of the muffler owns the vehicle. Restrictions and exclusions apply to all these warranties. Please read the 2012 Acura warranty information booklet that came with your vehicle for precise information on warranty coverages. Your vehicle's original tires are covered by their manufacturer. Tire warranty information is in a separate booklet. Canadian Owners Please refer to the 2012 warranty manual that came with your vehicle.


595


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Reporting Safety Defects


In the US If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying American Honda Motor Co., Inc.


In Canada If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform Honda Canada Inc. and you may also inform Transport Canada.


If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or American Honda Motor Co., Inc.


If Transport Canada receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may lead to a recall and remedy campaign. However, Transport Canada cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Honda Canada Inc.


To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov.


To contact Transport Canada's Defect Investigations and Recalls Division, you may call 1-800-333-0510. For more information on reporting safety defects or about motor vehicle safety, go to http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety.


596


Purchasing Factory Authorized Manuals (U.S. only) The publications shown below can be purchased from Helm Incorporated. You can order by phone or online:


● Call Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356 (credit card orders only)


● Go online at www. helminc. com If you are interested in other years or models, contact Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356.


Publication


Form Number


61STX05
61STX03EL


61STX30
31STX650
31STX850


31STXM50
31STXQ50


ACU-R


Form Description


2010-2012 Acura MDX Service Manual


2010-2011 Acura MDX


Electrical Troubleshooting Manual


2008 Acura MDX Body Repair Manual


2012 Acura MDX Owner's Manual


2012 Acura MDX


Navigation System Owner's Manual 2012 Acura MDX Maintenance Journal


2012 Acura MDX Advance Technology Guide


Order Form for Previous Years Indicate Year and Model Desired


Authorized Manuals


Service Manual: Covers maintenance and recommended procedures for repair to engine and chassis components. It is written for the journeyman mechanic, but it is simple enough for most mechanically inclined owners to understand. Electrical Troubleshooting Manual: Complements the Service Manual by providing in-depth troubleshooting information for each electrical circuit in your vehicle. Body Repair Manual: Describes the procedures involved in the replacement of damaged body parts.


597


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Accessories and


Modifications .......................... 431


ACCESSORY (Ignition Key


Position) ................................. 139
Accessory Power Sockets .......... 177
AC Power Outlet ........................ 178
Active Damper System ............... 484
Active Head Restraints ............... 152
AcuraLink® (U.S. models


only) ....................................... 402


Adaptive Cruise Control


(ACC) ..................................... 348
Additives, Engine Oil ................. 518
Adjusting the Steering Wheel .... 134
Advanced Airbags ........................ 31
Airbag (SRS) .......................... 10, 27
Air Conditioning System ............ 182
Rear A/C Control .................... 187
Air Outlets (Vents) ..................... 189
Air Pressure, Tires .............. 540, 541
Alcohol in Gasoline .................... 422
Antifreeze ................................... 520


Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)


Indicator ............................ 70, 462
Operation ................................ 461
Anti-theft, Audio System ............. 308
Anti-theft Steering Column


Lock ....................................... 139
Audio System ...................... 192, 212
Automatic Climate Control ......... 183
Automatic Lighting Off


Feature ................................... 131
Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners ... 23
Automatic Speed Control ........... 345
Automatic Transmission ............ 443
Capacity, Fluid ........................ 578
Checking Fluid Level .............. 523
Driving with the Paddle


Shifters ................................ 447
Shifting ................................... 444
Shift Lever Position


Indicators ............................ 443
Shift Lever Positions ............... 444
Shift Lock Release ................... 446
Auxiliary Input Jack ................... 307


Index


Battery


Charging System


Indicator ........................ 69, 562
Jump Starting .......................... 558
Maintenance ........................... 547
Specifications .......................... 579
Before Driving ........................... 421
Belts, Seat ................................ 9, 21
Beverage Holders ...................... 174
Blind Spot Information System


(BSI) ...................................... 476
Bluetooth® Audio ....................... 298
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®


(Models with navigation


system) ............................... 383


Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®


(Models without navigation


system) ............................... 365
Booster Seats ............................... 58


CONTINUED


11/08/29 10:08:20 12 ACURA MDX MMC North America Owner's M 50 31STX650 enu


Index


Brakes


Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) ........... 461
Break-in, New Linings ............. 422
Fluid ....................................... 525
Parking ................................... 164
System Design ........................ 461
System Indicator ............... 69, 564
Wear Indicators ....................... 461
Braking System .......................... 460
Break-in, New Vehicle ................ 422
Brightness Control,


Instruments ............................ 133


Bulb Replacement


Back-up Lights ................ 531, 532
Front Parking Lights ............... 529
Front Side Marker Lights ........ 529
Headlights .............................. 527
High-mount Brake Light ......... 533
Rear Bulbs .............................. 531
Rear License Plate Lights ........ 533
Specifications .......................... 579
Taillights ................................. 531
Bulbs, Halogen .......................... 527


II


Capacities Chart ......................... 578
Carbon Monoxide Hazard ............ 61
Cargo ......................................... 433
Cargo Hooks .............................. 437
Cargo, How to Carry .................. 433
Carrying Cargo .......................... 433
CAUTION, Explanation of ............. iv CD Care ..................................... 247
CD Error Messages ................... 246
CD Player .................................. 235
Certification Label ...................... 576
Chains, Tires .............................. 546
Changing a Flat Tire .................. 551
Changing Oil


How to .................................... 518
When to .................................. 507


Charging System


Indicator ........................... 69, 562
Checklist, Before Driving ........... 441
Childproof Door Locks ............... 141
Child Safety .................................. 40
Booster Seats ........................... 58
Child Seats .................... 45, 46, 48


Loading...
x